Ryan Russell's time: This is the last chance for the senior defensive end's performance to match his athletic ability. The talent is there, but Russell has to bring it every play and force opposing teams to pay attention. He's the key if the defensive front is going to show significant improvement.

Changing the math: If Russell doesn't command double teams, who does? Best bet is tackle Jake Replogle, who's added 30 pounds of muscle. The sophomore has the work ethic and motor to become the program's next defensive star. Ra'Zahn Howard missed most of camp with a groin and hip injury, but his big body takes up space in the middle.

Secondary shuffle: Taylor Richards' two-game suspension and Landon Feichter missing the first half of the opener takes a lot of experience off the field. Frankie Williams has embraced moving from cornerback to safety and there shouldn't be a drop-off. Anthony Brown is a natural at cornerback and has the play-making ability to create turnovers.

Up the middle: With the addition of freshman Ja'Whaun Bentley, the stock of the linebackers is pointing up. But how this group performs starts with Sean Robinson. The middle linebacker has the leadership qualities and is determined to erase what happened last year. While he's not as athletically gifted as other Big Ten linebackers, his mind is in the right place.

Tackles for loss: Only 55 a year ago to rank last among Big Ten teams.

FINAL THOUGHT

A year older. A year stronger. Those two elements alone should help coordinator Greg Hudson's group show progress from a disastrous 2013. The young players who saw action last season — Replogle, Howard, Evan Panfil — are much better prepared and the experience should show up, especially up front. If Russell, Howard and Replogle can win a majority of the battles at the line of scrimmage, this defense can take a step forward.